Tag: Stihl

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Stihl RMA 510 V Battery Mower Reviews: 2024 Buying Guide

stihl rma 510v mower

The Stihl RMA 510 V is a battery powered mower recently dropped onto the market by Stihl. The RMA 510V is a good battery powered mower and checks many boxes – but comes in at a premium price point. I don’t recommend it. 

If you are wondering why the Stihl electric mower is a big deal, it is mostly because Stihl has historically not made any mowers. Stihl also has not been a major player in the electric space. The investment Stihl has made in their RMA 510 V electric mower signals a huge move.

Here are the pros and cons of the Stilh RMA 510 V after I tested it extensively in my backyard and even tested it against my EGO mower:

Pros:

  • A nice steel cutting deck
  • Brushless motor
  • Great self-propelled function
  • Super easy to use

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Cannot use battery with many other tools

You can grab the Stihl electric mower at Acme Tools or Northern Tools (I’m NOT an affiliate of either and am providing a 100% honest review).

I tested the all-new Stihl RMA 510 V battery powered mower

Stihl’s RMA 510 V electric mower got shipped to my house the other day. After I got it unboxed and tested it in my backyard, here were my thoughts. As always, I am going to give you the brutally honest review only The Lawn Review provides.

The Stihl RMA 510 V mower has a durable steel cutting deck

Stihl is known for making high quality, durable products so I wasn’t surprised to see they went with a steel cutting deck on their new RMA 510 V electric mower. I liked the metal cutting deck on the Stihl mower because it provides two things.

First, the Stilh RMA 510 V’s metal cutting deck adds additional weight that improves control of the mower. Second, the metal cutting deck is highly durable when compared to competitor’s plastic cutting decks.

Stihl’s RMA 510 V battery mower has a nice self-propelled function

The self-propelled function on the Stihl RMA 510 V battery mower is super easy to activate. It’s located conveniently on the left side of the handlebars where you can quickly toggle the speed. Many self-propelled lawn mowers have a simple “on” or “off” feature instead of giving you total control of the speed. 

The Stihl RMA 510 V has a nice “goldilocks” effect of letting me put it at right about ¾ full speed so I can hustle without getting too sweaty. 

The Stihl mower has all the basics

I like that this mower has a seven-setting height adjustment that makes mowing your lawn in bermudagrass or tall fescue a breeze. Many folks overlook this point, but it is truly versatile all across the great United States.

The RMA 510 V is easy to use, easy to assemble, great for storage, and highly durable. 

The Stihl RMA 510 V has a brushless motor – which is important. 

Overall – I can’t complain about this mower. If I was handed it for free and got to take it for a spin, I would love it. But the price point is simply too high for me to take the leap when there are other more trusted brands with experience in the battery lawn mower game.

The Stihl RMA 510 V battery system is not expansive

One downside of the Stihl RMA 510 V mower is that the AP 300 S Stihl battery is simply not widely used. With mowers like the Milwaukee M18 mower or the EGO Select Cut XP – you get to use the same battery across hundreds of tools. 

When you go with a battery system like Stihl’s RMA 510 V and AP 300 S, you take up charging space in your garage or shed. Not good!

Stihl’s battery mower is expensive

If you buy the full mower kit, the Stihl RMA 510 V battery mower costs you nearly $800. That is too high, in my opinion. 

Alternatives:

  1. You can get basically an identical mower with a better battery system from Greenworks (check out our review here).
  2. EGO has a bunch of mowers that are about the same price but better (in my opinion).
  3. Heck even Toro has a nice battery mower that is better.

My final review after testing: Stihl RMA 510 V electric mower

I don’t recommend the Stihl RMA 510 V. It has some great features and a solid build, but Stihl has just recently entered the lawn mower game and the battery and electric tool game and I don’t want to be their guinea pig. 

How I tested the Stihl RMA 510 V electric mower

I tested the mower the same way I test all of the battery powered mowers I test – by ruthlessly running this mower into the ground. I lowered the deck all the way and put it into some tall fescue, ran it over some sticks, and mowed until the battery died. 

The Stihl mower was crying for help by the time I was done – but it had to be truly put to the test to see how it stood up. Overall, I was impressed with how it performed, just not the price point that it is listed for. 

FAQ

Here are some common questions I get about Stihl’s RMA 510 V electric mower.

What’s the difference between the Stihl RMA 510 V and the Stihl RMA 510  electric mowers?

The Stihl RMA 510 V has a variable speed self-propelled function whereas the RMA 510 does not.

Is the Stihl RMA 510 V mower worth it?

The Stihl RMA 510 V is expensive for what you get – I don’t think it is worth it.

Does the Stihl RMA 510 V have a brushless motor?

Yes, most of Stilh’s electric tools have brushless motors.

Trust me – it isn’t advertised and I’ve been corrected before!

Why you can trust The Lawn Review

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

What to look for in an electric mower brand

When looking to purchase an electric lawn mower, you need to make sure you understand what things matter. You will get hit with a lot of technical specifications and marketing tactics. Totally forget them and focus on the things that impact you. Below are my recommendations:

Battery powered mower brand quality

Quality is going to be super important here. Just about everyone is in the electric mower game these days and there are a ton of junky mowers out there. Avoid anything from a weird brand on Amazon that takes 9 years to ship. It is probably being 3D printed in a Laotian bathroom. Go for brands that have consistent quality and focus on the details, not just flashy colors.

Some brands I trust off the top of my head are: Greenworks, Milwaukee, Makita, Toro, EGO, and Kobalt. SOME Ryobi mowers, although myself and others have had some problems with reliability. Brand quality matters, but it’s also important to look at the specs on each. For example, Greenworks sells like 60 mowers, only a handful of them would I ever consider for this list. EGO also sells a bunch of mowers, and only a few are within an acceptable price range to be on this list.

Metal where it matters: the deck 

Most electric mowers are plastic-y. Probably to reduce the weight of the mower so that the battery can get you further, but it feels cheap. Make sure to get metal where it matters – namely the deck. The deck is the part that covers the blades. Don’t get plastic here – a rock can rip through it.

Battery interoperability.

 A ten dollar word used here, but really just make sure to buy a mower with a battery that is compatible with other electric tools. You’ll see a bunch of these brands that have battery lines that work with a ton of tools. Milwaukee, Makita, and Dewalt are all great options because you can use them for all lawn tools AND power tools – saving you a ton of money on extra batteries.

If you have more questions, check out our guide to electric lawn mowers, where we break this down into a lot more detail.

Self-propelled or not

Self-propelled mowers are lawn mowers that slowly crawl forward when mowing the lawn. They propel forward the mower, taking off a lot of the “pushing power” required by traditional push mowers.

Self-propelled mowers are ALWAYS more expensive because they have the additional power and functionality that makes life easier. They have their place, but because of the cost can often seem not totally worth it

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ECHO vs Stihl Backpack Blower: Comparing the Giants

Echo vs Stihl Backpack Blowers is like comparing Ferraris vs Lamborghinis. They’re both crazy good options that are elite blowers in the landscaping world.

I have a personal vendetta against backpack blowers because my nextdoor neighbor insists on using them as alarm clocks on the weekends, but I can’t deny how great of a tool they are.

When we first used the Stihl BR600 backpack blower, it felt like a bazooka was strapped to our back. But then we tried the ECHO. Then tried the Stihl again. And honestly, I felt like we had to go write this post to detail our experience.

These are two of the top backpack leaf blowers in the game – so let’s see how they stack up in every category. We chose the Stihl BR 600 to compare to the ECHO PB-770H as they are two of the most popular backpack blowers and the top of the line option from both brands.

Jump ahead:

Want to see a comparison to battery powered backpack blowers?

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we spend our time.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

What to look for in a backpack blower

Backpack blowers come in a bunch of shapes and sizes but there are three basic things you need to understand:

CFMs on blowers

Cubic feet per minute. This is a measure of air output on the blower. Higher CFM = more power, but not necessarily more miles per hour. High CFM with a wide nozzle = lower MPH. High CFM with a narrow nozzle = high miles per hour. Ideally, you want both a high CFM with a narrow to medium nozzle for most residential jobs.

Usability

What is the point of having a blower if it is hard to use? Have to get one that is lightweight, easy to start, and has some functions that make your life easier. One thing I look for here is how the weight is distributed. I also look for things like variable speed control, sound, and how easy it is to reach or change controls like cruise control.

Reliability

It’s important to have reliable equipment – hands down. For homeowners, having a backpack blower that can easily start and requires minimal maintenance is key. The engine doesn’t get as much use as a professional landscaper, so hopefully doesn’t require the same maintenance schedule. For professional landscapers, you need to have a blower that starts quickly and isn’t a headache requiring frequent tinkering and minor replacements. 

Rugged. Trusted.

ECHO PB-770H vs Stihl BR 600 Backpack Blower

Now that we know what we are looking for in a backpack blower, we can see how both the ECHO and Stihl blowers stack up. Both brands are known for making super strong products that landscapers and homeowners love, but only one can truly come out on top. 

Let’s get started!

Power comparison

When it comes to backpack blowers, power is everything. Power is extremely important to be able to move large quantities of leaves under a quick timeline. Leaf blower power is measured in both CFMs and MPH. With backpack blowers, you really want high CFMs AND high MPH.

With high CFMs, you can ensure that there is a significant volume of air coming out of the tip of the blower. This usually is the “punch” that the blower provides and helps you cover large quantities at a time. MPH gives you the speed to make sure the large burst of air is coming out quickly. Without both, you either get a wimpy but large burst of air OR a small jet stream that doesn’t help move big piles. 

The ECHO PB-770H boasts a huge 756 CFMs and 234 MPH air speed. The Stihl BR 600 clocks in at 677 CFM and 238 MPH. These are really close figures, despite having some differences at CFM. Since they are nearly the same air speed, the ECHO must have a slightly larger opening and burst of air. Although most folks won’t recognize a difference in power, the ECHO PB-770H has a slight advantage in overall power output. 

An absolute beast.

Despite the minor power output differences, these have nearly the same engine displacement at both around 64 ccs. 

This one is so close because the engines are just about identical. Stihl has slightly more speed, but ECHO has slightly more air output. As much as I’d like to call it a tie, I actually believe ECHO’s CFM advantage puts this one as the definitive winner of the head-to-head power assessment.

Winner: ECHO PB-770H Backpack Blower

Usability features

When I’m looking at usability, the real test begins at about 15 minutes into using the blower. At that point, I’m wondering if I feel like I have complete control over the tool or if I am having to wrestle with it to get the job done.

Extra padded.

In particular, I’m gauging how my shoulder feels and whether or not my hand has started cramping due to the trigger placement and other control features.

Whereas the Stihl and ECHO blowers were super similar in power, they are much different in usability. Most backpack blowers operate by having a little handle at the midway point of the blower nozzle that allows you to control the direction of airflow. 

Stihl and ECHO have major differences in the functionality of that handle. With the Stihl BR 600, the handle that controls the direction of airflow (the steering handle) also has the throttle trigger and setting lever embedded on it. This is super helpful and convenient as it gives you total control of the blower without having to mess with other portions of the blower.

This is super convenient.

On the other hand, the ECHO PB-770H has a separate lever that controls the throttle and speed. While it is something you can get used to after a couple tries, it will never be as comfortable as the Stihl BR 600. ECHO does allow you to purchase the PB-770T, a surprisingly less popular version that has a cord that wraps around and allows you to mount the throttle on the blower nozzle.

Just not as much control.

The winner of the usability competition: Stihl BR 600.

Reliability

When I evaluate a backpack blower for reliability, there are a few things I look for. The first is how difficult the blower is to start. Nothing is more frustrating than cranking the pull cord over and over without the dang blower starting. 

The Stihl BR 600 has a purge pump primer, which allows you to prime the carburetor without flooding the engine. Basically, it limits the amount of times the carburetor can be primed, therefore limiting the number of times you pull the cord before it starts. This is a huge advantage because I just know I have flooded my engine a dozen times. 

The ECHO PB-770H does not have any specific function that protects the operator from making honest mistakes. Anecdotally, this is the blower my neighbor has and I swear I watched her crank it close to 50 times in a row the other day before it started.

The maintenance schedules on both the Stihl BR 600 and ECHO PB-770H blowers is straightforward. The classic spark plug and air filter replacement as needed and the occasional service.

Reputationally, the BR 600 from Stihl is one I’ve seen completely beaten down, scraped up, and continues to run and start super easily. I own this one and while it takes a dozen pulls, it has a nice foot plate that makes it really effortless to get started around the 10th crank or so.

Looks cooler, too.

Winner: Stihl BR 600.

Price comparison

Oddly enough, the Stihl BR 600 and the ECHO PB-770H come in at exactly the same price: $529.99. Wish I could pick a winner here, but they are exactly the same.

Our winner: Stihl BR 600 vs ECHO PB-770H Backpack Blower

After it is all said and done, this is a really tough battle. These things are super easily matched and even cost the exact same. 

But for this battle, there has to be one winner: the Stihl BR 600. 

We chose the Stihl BR 600 because it is simply easier to use and more trustworthy than the ECHO PB-700H. The features that come with the BR 600 make it easier to start and easier to control. Plus, not only do we see this every time we walk into our garage, but just about every landscaper in the country has one of these. They are the Ford F150 of the landscaping game because you just can’t go wrong with one.

Continues to last.

They sell these at Ace Hardware or you can buy them pre-owned for a few hundred dollars cheaper.

Interested in other ECHO and Stihl products? Check out our comparison of ECHO and Stihl Weed Eaters.

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ECHO vs Stihl String Trimmers: Comparison Guide

I like the Stihl FS 56 RC compared to the ECHO SRM 225 because it provides a more powerful cut. ECHO and Stihl weed eaters are the gas-powered string trimmers of choice for both commercial and residential use. Both have a reputation for raw power, insane durability, and great performance.

We have extensively reviewed ECHO weed eaters AND Stihl weed eaters and found the two that are most comparable from each brand in the residential space. 

The ECHO SRM225 weed eater and the Stihl FS 56 RC weed eater are not only the two most popular, but also extremely similar in just about every way. If you’re looking to pull the trigger (pun intended) on buying one of these, then you need to make sure you read the below deep dive.

Jump ahead:

ECHO SRM 225 vs Stihl FS 56 RC weed eater: Head-to-head comparison

Alright, y’all – let’s get to comparing these two string trimmers. We should walk through a power comparison, how these both feel to operate, maintenance, and price/value. Here we go!

Power comparison between ECHO and Stihl weed eaters

Let me start by saying in a blinded test between the two, the power output feels almost identical. I’ve used my trusty Stihl for a long time, but every time I walk by my neighbor’s lawn he has some seriously nice edges around his yard that he did with his ECHO SRM225. 

But if we want to get all technical, the Stihl FS 56 RC has about 25% more cc’s of power output. This is more than enough for the average homeowner and will really help you take it from an around-the-house weed eater to a dense brush-cutting beast. 

The powerful head of the ECHO SRM 225.

Both the ECHO and Stihl weed eaters are good for anything residential and had similar cutting power for just about everything we did in our driveway and around our back deck. The only real difference was that the Stihl felt like it accelerated more quickly than the ECHO. At top speeds, however, it was harder to tell. ECHO’s SRM 225 reaches an RPM (rotations per minute) of nearly 9,000 whereas the Stihl string trimmer reaches closer to 10,000 RPM. 

It’s clear that the Stihl is the more powerful string trimmer when compared to the ECHO. At the end of the day, both are more than enough power for residential use. But if you have any brush in your backyard that you want to slice down, the Stihl FS 56 RC is going to get it done faster.

Comparing usability between ECHO and Stihl

When I’m evaluating user experience I always use my shoulder as the gauge for how easy a weed eater is to use. What I’ve found that impacts the way my shoulder feels are two things:

  • The weight of the string trimmer
  • How long the shaft is

These two things have more impact than a harness or balance or anything else. For me, longer shafts provide more control, which may seem counterintuitive. But I liken it to a surgeon using a scalpel. I have much more nuance when controlling the weed eater when the shaft is longer. Small movements make delicate cuts and shapes in whatever I’m working on.

Me using the FS 56 RC weed eater from Stihl.

The Stihl FS 56 RC weed eater comes in at 10.5 lbs whereas the ECHO SRM 225 weighs just over 11.5 lbs. That extra pound makes a difference when you’re bent over walking around your yard for 25 minutes.

The ECHO SRM 225 has about 5 inches of length on the Stihl FS 56 RC, however. At 71 inches, ECHO trumps the Stihl’s 66 inches in length. 

This is a tough one, but I would honestly trade in the extra 5 inches for the extra pound of weight.

The ECHO SRM 225 wins the user experience comparison.

Which is easier to maintain, Stihl or ECHO?

When it comes to maintenance of weed eaters, there are only a few things to keep in mind. About once per quarter, you’ll want to replace the air filter on both the ECHO and Stihl weed eaters. With heavier use, you may have to replace the spark plug as well, but realistically that may be an every year or even every other year replacement. 

The SRM 225 is a beaut.

Otherwise, both ECHO and Stihl recommend making sure that the drive shaft is greased and the fuel filters are inspected and cleaned. Neither of these string trimmers require much maintenance, but they do have some small things to watch out for. 

Using the right weed eater string for both is important to preserve performance. Both come with a stock string trimmer line, but we recommend using our .095” green weed eater string that is triangle-shaped. 

We tested this string against a TON of other weed eater strings and it was far and above the absolute best. 

Price and value: ECHO vs Stihl

The ECHO SRM 225 comes in at about $230 depending on where you buy it, which I recommend checking the price here at Home Depot. The price on the Stihl fluctuates wildly but the Stihl FS 56 RC is about $220-250 and can be purchased at Ace Hardware.

Y’all – this is relatively straight forward. The Stihl is the better option between the two. It not only provides a more powerful cut but often comes in at a lower price. This thing is going to last you for a long time and is definitely the better value.

The Best Weed Eater String for Stihl and ECHO string trimmers

Y’all – we developed our own weed eater string that is designed to be the most powerful, durable, and visible on the planet. It is INSANELY good. Check it out below – we tested it against DOZENS of other string trimmer lines.

Final words: Stihl string trimmer vs ECHO

While I was doing the testing for this article, I really didn’t know which would be better. I loved my Stihl but thought my neighbor’s ECHO was just the same, if not better. After using both and doing some deep research on the technical specifications, the Stihl was the clear winner.

The ECHO weed eater is a bit easier to use but is more expensive than the Stihl. The Stihl is more powerful, requires about the same amount of maintenance, is lighter, and comes in at about 15% cheaper than the ECHO.

The winner? Stihl FS 56 RC. 

Why we review string trimmers

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we spend our time now.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

How to instantly improve your weed eater

Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.

Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.

With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

What to look for in a weed eater

Weed eaters come in all shapes and sizes. They aren’t highly complicated pieces of equipment, but they do have a few nuances. Here is how I see it:

Feel and Ease of Use

Obviously this is subjective, but feel is everything to me. I have had weed eaters in the past where the handle is off to the side, making me torque my shoulders and back. If you can, get as many adjustable pieces as possible to make this customizable. It doesn’t seem like you use a weed eater for a long time, but the work is precision work that requires a steady hand and focus.

Engine Type and maintenance

For residential use, you don’t need a whole lot of power, but if you’re picking between two, you might as well make a point to compare the two. More cc displacement means more power, but how efficiently is it being delivered? How easy is it to replace the air filter or spark plug?

Curved vs Straight shaft 

 I always, always, always prefer straight shafts. They are so much easier to use and control and are much longer than curved shafts. Curved shafts are good for clearing out a small piece of land unable to be mowed. But if you want to actually do some good trimming and edging, a straight shaft is much better. Curved shafts are difficult to maneuver and to create a straight line for edging. Both of these weed eaters have straight shafts, so you’re in good hands.

Not a fan!

Price and value

Of course price is important – but more important than price is how much value it provides.

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4 Best Stihl String Trimmers (w/ Prices): 2024 Update

The best Stihl String Trimmer is the Stihl FS 56 RC or RC-E because it is affordable, great for commercial or residential landscaping, and extremely reliable.

Stihl string trimmers are the standard when it comes to landscaping. Just about every landscaper you see around town is going to have one of these bad boys strapped to the back of their trailer. 

Now that’s why they are so dang popular. But there are many classes of Stihl weed eaters – residential, landscaping / professional, and even battery-powered. I’d like to cut through all of the options and bring the best right up to the top for you. 

Ready?

Let’s get started.

Curious at how Stihl stacks up vs ECHO?

The Ultimate Stihl Weed Eater Buying Guide

To really cut to the chase, we distilled down the dozens of Stihl weed eaters to a concise list, by category of user. No need to do a Top 10 when you just want the best, right?

Most Powerful Stihl String Trimmer for Landscapers: Stihl FS 240 R

When you’re looking for a weed eater as a landscaper there are a few things to keep in mind. First is how effective and reliable the machine is, second is how efficient it is, and third is how it feels to use. 

All of these are related to speed. Speed is the name of the game in landscaping. More jobs = more money. You aren’t going to be nearly as fast with a dinky weed eater that you’re constantly having to mess with. 

Meant to be on a landscaping trailer.

The Stihl FS 240 R is the answer to the speed issue. Here are a few of my favorite things about this Stihl Weed Eater:

  • A large fuel tank. Having a larger fuel tank allows for less re-fuels which means you can spend more time getting the job done.
  • Massive cutting width. The 16.5 inch cutting swatch on the FS 240 R is best in class. Having a big cutting swath means you can tackle thicker brush and absolutely devastate any grass. Another huge time saver.
  • An easy way of starting the string trimmer. This automatically returns the throttle to the start setting whenever the trimmer is stopped. Another time saver.
  • A shoulder strap. Again, not having to take breaks on your arms or shoulders when using this is going to get you from one job to the next in less time.

Stihl consulted with professional landscapers with each element of this design. Every element of it was meant to be focused on one thing: empowering the landscaper to move from one job to the next while providing consistent reliability.

You can check out more details on Stihl’s website.

The Stihl FS 240 R costs about $670, which is very expensive but also saves you a ton of time on the job. Tough balance. It goes on sale at Ace Hardware.

Best Stihl Weed Eater for Green Landscaping: Stihl FSA 130 R

Green landscaping is using battery-powered lawn tools to get the job done instead of exclusively gas-powered tools. It is a growing trend, but still not the most practical way to run your landscaping business.

Frankly, gas-powered tools get the job done faster because refueling is way quicker with gas than it is with a battery. Most batteries take a few hours to fully charge, which is precious time you don’t have on the job site. Even if you buy multiple batteries, they still have to charge somewhere sometime. 

But Stihl has recently entered the battery-powered string trimmer space and has a mostly residential line of weed eaters (see below for more). The new FSA 130 R however, was designed for landscaping applications. 

The Stihl FSA 130 R differentiates itself from its gas counterparts by selling itself as the quiet weed eater. The reason this sells well with landscapers is that it simply isn’t practical to be an entirely gas-free landscaping company (yet). They aren’t going to be interested if that’s the angle Stihl takes.

So Stihl is playing this really well. Landscapers can use this for properties that require quiet environments. Think schools, churches, hospitals, etc. that are customers of the landscaping company. Having quiet features is a huge benefit to them. 

Simple speed control lever.

Here are some of the features on this that really make it best in class:

  • Extremely light at only 8.6lbs, compare that with almost 15 on the gas one above
  • No maintenance other than replacing string 
  • Starts with the push of a button
  • Has a quiet motor
  • Comes with separate “quiet” string trimmer line

Essentially, this is the ninja of commercial landscaping. 

See how it plugs in?

One major downside to Stihl’s commercial battery line is that you have to wear the battery as a backpack. You’re reading that right. There’s a backpack that fits their battery and connects to the tool with a cable. It’s weird and bulky, but it does give you the flexibility to have significant run time that an attached battery can’t do without throwing the tool out of balance.

Kind of weird.

If you’re interested in more, check this one out on Stihl’s website.

The Stihl FSA 130 R costs about $500, which is a heck of a lot of money.

Best Stihl Weed Eater for Home / Residential Use: Stihl FS 56 RC-E

Not a commercial landscaper and just want a really high quality and reliable weed eater? Well Stihl has you covered here, too. 

We’ve written extensively about the Stihl FS 56 RC-E, which we also did a YouTube video review about as well.

The Stihl FS 56 RC-E is an amazing all-around weed eater for home use. Made right here in America, it provides the power and reliability of the commercial series at a size and price that fit the average homeowner’s needs well. 

Me using the Stihl FS 56 RC-E around my house.

I’ve owned this string trimmer for a few years and it has continued to be one of the most reliable tools in my shed. Here are a few things I love about it:

  • High end power with 5 more ccs of output than its ECHO SRM 225 competitor
  • Straight shaft and lack of vibration
  • 10.6lbs, super light for a gas powered weed eater
  • Easy 2 Start technology helps reset the choke and allows you to start on the first pull
Easy2Start – they mean it!

One complaint I have after owning this for a few years is that replacing the line is super difficult. It’s always a tedious task and it still takes a lot of guess-and-check for me to get it done right. 

I got mine at Ace Hardware, but the Stihl website should be able to guide you well.

The Stihl FS 56 RC-E comes in at about $229, which you can grab at Ace Hardware.

Best Stihl Weed Eater for Small Yards: Stihl FSA 57

So you want a Stihl weed eater but don’t need anything big and fancy, just a reliable and easy to use trimmer with the brand power of Stihl?

Maybe you just downsized and sold your big bad gas trimmer?

Whatever your situation, if you have a small yard then you don’t need to go overkill and spend too much money. Stihl is trying to build a bigger footprint in the homeowner sector and has launched their battery line to appeal to lighter-duty needs. 

The Stihl FSA 57 (one of their newest) battery weed eater (which we reviewed as well in a long form post) is a great tool for the average homeowner in a smaller house. I love that it still has a straight shaft and it’s super easy to use.

As compared to the commercial line of battery lawn tools that require a backpack that you plug the tool into, the residential weed eaters from Stihl have a nice little battery you can pop right on. I also love that WITH the battery, this string trimmer comes in at 7.5 lbs. That is maybe the lightest weed eater on record. 

Look who they are marketing to…

Lastly, this thing has a really cool feature that auto-feeds string trimmer line when it gets short. Huge timesaver. 

The auto-feed feature is great.

One thing I don’t love about this Stihl weed eater is that it doesn’t have a brushless motor, meaning it may have a tendency to not last quite as long as its brushless counterparts. It also only has an 11 inch cutting width, which is probably fine for most small yards but definitely weaker than the bigger string trimmers out there. 

The Stihl FSA 57 Weed Eater comes in at about $199. 

Fuel Mixture for Stihl Weed Eater

Stihl Weed Eaters take a 50:1 gas to oil fuel mixture ratio. You can measure this out yourself or grab a pre-mixed fuel mixture from Stihl on Amazon.

Best Weed Eater String for Stihl String Trimmers

We developed the world’s best weed eater string by testing dozens of weed eater strings and taking the little elements of each one that we like the most. We found that a .095″, green, triangle shaped string was the most visible, durable, and had the best performance. It is incredible.

Final words about Stihl Weed Eaters

Stihl Weed Eaters are top of the line for a reason – they consistently deliver the most power, the best user experience, and absolutely unbeatable reliability.

From landscapers to homeowners, Stihl’s lineup is impressive. 

Not a Stihl person? Try our list of the competitor’s leading ECHO weed eaters here.

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we spend our time.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is still at it! Pumping out high quality product after high quality product. They’re thought of as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. The boys in orange are known to have a superior product to their competitors. The Stihl Trimmers are obviously no exception to their already super strong lineup.

The world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, the company moved some operations to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the lawn care space. They have amazing blowers like the Stihl BG 86 C and the Stihl BR600 backpack blower.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products and they’ve recently launched a new battery line-up.

Gas vs Electric Weed Eaters

When purchasing a piece of lawn equipment in 2023 it’s important to understand your power source options. It basically boils down to gas or electric. Electric trimmers are typically easier to start and require little to no maintenance.

They also have less of a noise and environmental impact. Electric trimmers are usually a good bet for small jobs.

Trimmer powered by gas usually end up having more power and are more suitable for larger, more commercial type applications. Because some electric trimmers receive power by a cord they’re not super mobile, gas powered weed eaters can go where you can go. If you want to trim up the moon, it can go with you.

If you want to know more about weed eater string, check out our guide to finding the right weed eater string.

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Stihl FSA 90 R String Trimmer Review: 2024 Update

Stihl’s FSA 90 R string trimmer is their new, professional-grade, battery powered string trimmer. I’ll cut to the chase – I was disappointed by this string trimmer.

Cool picture from Ace Hardware.

Stihl? Battery-powered? Yep, we are still (Stihl) getting used to the idea of it ourselves. But we checked out the Stihl FSA 45 and Stihl FSA 57 string trimmers as well, and weren’t all that impressed. I even tested out the new Stihl RMA 510 V mower (me with it pictured below).

But, we are ready to get hurt again! The FSA 90 brings the promise of professional landscaper-type quality and power to the table. So for now, we are listening.

Let’s put this Stihl string trimmer under the microscope:

Stihl FSA 90 R String Trimmer: Features and benefits

Now that we’ve given you a quick primer on Stihl, the world of battery powered lawn tools, and our motivation for writing these reviews, let’s get started actually checking out the Stihl FSA 90 R string trimmer.

Power: FSA 90 R

Let’s cut right to the chase. When it comes to a string trimmer, power is of the utmost importance. The first positive piece of information I can give you about this string trimmer is that it has a nice 15” cutting swath. 

15 inches is consistent with the gas-powered professional lawn tools and is a non-negotiable for anyone who has a yard bigger than ¼ of an acre. Trimmers of this size allow you to cut through thicker brush with more consistency than smaller trimmers. It also allows you to tilt this thing sideways and do a pretty darn good job edging as well. 

They tried to create the battery version of their classic Stihl FS 56 RC.

If you need to go even further and do some brushcutting, Stihl has made a handy guide of add-ons that can be used with the FSA 90 R.

The power on this trimmer is definitely good for any homeowner and can even be used by the professional landscapers of the world. In areas that are noise-sensitive (schools, businesses, etc.), popping this trimmer off of the trailer and doing a bang-up job is super easy. While it wouldn’t be my main trimmer in my lawn tool arsenal if I were a pro, it can definitely be a good compliment and please your customers. 

Using the Stihl FSA 90 R is easy

Where Stihl fell short with their other string trimmers, they made up for in usability. The Stihl FSA 90 R string trimmer has a nice long shaft (no jokes), which I prefer (please don’t joke) because of how much easier it is to use. It allows you to be much more precise in handling the trimmer, almost surgical. With this one, I didn’t feel like I had to crank my shoulder because it has a nice rubber loop handle and the battery is located in a well-balanced spot. 

One thing I liked about the battery’s location was that it didn’t hang underneath the handle or anywhere else. It compactly slides into the top of the trimmer, making the whole thing feel solid.

Battery slides into a little pocket.

At just under 10lbs with the battery on, it’s definitely one of the lighter weight pro-style string trimmers on the battery market. It also comes with this nice little built-in hook that allows you to hang it on a garage rack or even a nail. 

Hangs on the wall!

All-in-all, this thing was super easy to use and felt comfortable the whole time. 

The brushless motor makes the Stihl FSA 90 pretty durable

Durability is also one of the huge question marks on the FSA 90 R and all battery-powered string trimmers for that matter.

CORRECTION: I previously stated that this trimmer did NOT have a brushless motor. I was wrong! As one of our YouTube viewers pointed out (shoutout Milton), these do in fact have brushless motors that are electronically controlled.

Stihl highlights their brushless motor technology on this page, but not on the product main page or in the manual.

Brushless motors are great because they provide a more reliable, durable, cooler-running motor as compared to brushed motors.

Price and value

The Stihl FSA 90 R string trimmer is going to run you well over $400 for the tool, battery, and charger. If you are #blessed and already own a Stihl battery, you can get the tool-only version for just under $400 from Ace Hardware.

Unfortunately, I don’t think this is a great deal. If you are looking for a nice pro-grade string trimmer, I recommend checking out EGO string trimmers instead. 

String Trimmer Line for Stihl FSA 90 R

We developed an amazing string trimmer line that we tested against DOZENS of other lines. Check it out here.

The Final Verdict: Stihl FSA 90 R String Trimmer

Sad to say it, but this Stihl string trimmer falls into the same category as the other more residential offerings. It by far has the most power, but it comes at a steep price compared to some of its peers, like some of the EGO string trimmers.

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we spend our time.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

How to instantly improve your weed eater

Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.

Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.

With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

Gas vs Electric String Trimmer

When purchasing a piece of lawn equipment in 2022 it’s important to understand your power source options. It basically boils down to gas or electric trimmers. Electric trimmers are typically easier to start and usually maintenance is a breeze. They also have less of a noise and environmental impact. Electric trimmers are usually a good bet for small to medium-sized jobs.

Trimmers powered by gas usually end up having more power and are more suitable for larger, more commercial type applications. This is mainly due to the issues the professionals have with keeping them charged. But not all of us are professionals, we just want a badass string trimmer from Stihl.

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is still at it! Pumping out high quality product after high quality product. They’re thought of as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. The boys in orange are known to have a superior product to their competitors.

The world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, the company moved some operations to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the lawn care space.

Easily recognizable.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products.

We took the liberty of compiling a list of the best Stihl weed eaters here.

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Stihl FSA 45 String Trimmer Review: 2024 Update

The Stihl FSA 45 string trimmer has a feature I’ve never seen on any string trimmer, and I’ve used and reviewed DOZENS of string trimmers.

Stihl string trimmers are some of the most widely used trimmers in the world by both landscapers and homeowners alike.

Stihl has a new line of battery string trimmers. We have already reviewed the Stihl FSA 57 string trimmer and next up on our list is the Stihl FSA 45 cordless trimmer.

Bottom Line: While you likely won’t find a landscaper using the STIHL FSA 45 string trimmer (unless he’s being punished), there are still plenty of folks who would love this string trimmer.

Today, we are going to break down some of the features that make it unique – the good, bad, and ugly. 

Let’s get started:

Stihl FSA 45 String Trimmer: Features and benefits

The Stihl FSA 45 String Trimmer is a unique cordless trimmer that has become super popular. Let’s break down some of the features of this new weed eater.

I can work with that.

The Stihl FSA 45 string trimmer lacks desirable power

The new battery line from Stihl is where you begin to see a deviation from Stihl’s rich history. Stihl has always been one of the toughest, most professionally-driven, powerful lawn tool manufacturers on the face of the Earth. 

Their new battery products are not really all that powerful, but if you’re a homeowner with a small yard and looking for reliable products, then it is hard to beat Stihl.

The FSA 45 is not the most powerful. In fact, it only has a 9 inch cutting swath, which is definitely one of the smallest I’ve reviewed. For reference, most commercial string trimmers have a 15 inch cutting width. 9 is really small and is only really good for little here-and-there trimming around the yard. This will not be a reliable trimmer for thicker brush, edging, or very tall grass. 

Sad!

Looks about right…

It claims that it can cut up to 3 football fields worth of length on a single battery, but the battery only runs for 12 minutes. Not sure you could cover all of that in 12 minutes, so who knows (should we put this to the test?!).

The Stihl FSA 45 battery system is confusing

The Stihl FSA 45 is a part of Stihl’s new AI series – not sure what AI stands for, but it means that the battery is integrated into the tool. Yep, most battery tools have one that pops off. This one is more like an electric car; you plug it in to the wall to keep it charged and then pop it off to get going. 

This has some benefits but also some major drawbacks. Firstly, it’s nice to have a sleeker product that is just one solid piece. No worrying about buying extra batteries or having  to keep a charger taking up plug space all the time.

A major drawback is that for each one of these integrated tools, it’s basically like having a separate battery system. There is no synergy, no ability to pop off a battery and put it on another tool to keep going, no incentive to buy more Stihl products to save money on batteries.

Good for the small stuff, not for the big stuff

It actually kind of sucks. But if you have a tiny yard and don’t need a bunch of fancy tools, then a small electric mower and this string trimmer are all you really need. 

Stihl’s FSA 45 is light and easy to use

The Stihl FSA 45 string trimmer absolutely shines in the usability department. It really is designed for the common homeowner who doesn’t spend a ton of time in their yard. It is extremely comfortable and easy to use. At just over 5 lbs, it is super lightweight.

Battery light indicator is cool.

A few features we really liked about this one:

  • It comes with a loop that allows you to hang it on the wall. Garage storage is always an issue with lawn tools, so this one tries to make it nice and easy.
  • You have built in battery life notifications right on the tool without the need to separate the battery
  • It’s got a nice, easy to use handle. Honestly it feels like using a Swiffer or some other easy to use house cleaning tool.
  • It has an activation key, which is good and bad because it would suck to lose it.

This thing is all about convenience and ease of use – so this is really the most well-developed part of the trimmer.

Can do some liiiiight edging.

The Stihl FSA 45 weed eater is affordable

The Stihl FSA 45 sells for about $140. This is a DECENT price for this tool. You can get some Black and Decker string trimmers for comparable performance for much lower, however. Since this doesn’t come with a separate battery, why not just grab a more cost effective tool?

Stihl FSA 45 Battery Powered Weed Eater String

We developed our own weed eater string that is built to make weed eaters like the Stihl FSA 45 more powerful. Check it out!

Overall Review: Stihl FSA 45 cordless trimmer

The Stihl FSA 45 String Trimmer is a great, lightweight, easy to use string trimmer with a great brand name behind it. However, if you are looking for more power or something of equal caliber but at a lower price, then I recommend continuing to search elsewhere.

For a more powerful trimmer, I would check out EGO’s string trimmers. For a comparable trimmer that is much cheaper, check out Black and Decker.

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

Our jobs.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

How to instantly improve your weed eater

Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.

Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.

With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is still at it! Pumping out high quality product after high quality product. They’re thought of as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. The boys in orange are known to have a superior product to their competitors. The Stihl FS 56 RC Trimmer is a top notch trimmer that falls right in line with some of their other awesome products.

Comparing a Stihl gas blower to an EGO battery blower.

The world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, the company moved some operations to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the lawn care space.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products.

Gas vs Electric String Trimmer

When purchasing a piece of lawn equipment in 2022 it’s important to understand your power source options. It basically boils down to gas or electric. Electric trimmers are typically easier to start and usually maintenance is a breeze. They also have less of a noise and environmental impact. Electric trimmers are usually a good bet for small to medium-sized jobs.

Trimmers powered by gas usually end up having more power and are more suitable for larger, more commercial type applications. This is mainly due to the issues the professionals have with keeping them charged. But not all of us are professionals, we just want a badass string trimmer from Stihl.

We took the time to compile the best Stihl weed eaters here.

Posted on

Stihl BGA 57 Battery Blower Reviews: My thoughts

Stihl’s BGA 57 leaf blower is a new, slick-looking handheld blower that carries a brand with a big reputation. I expected a lot of power with this because Stihl has never made “weak” leaf blowers.

I challenge you to check out each landscaping crew that you pass in the car this week and see if they have anything that is orange and white (Go Vols!). I guarantee they will either have a Stihl trimmer or Stihl backpack blower. 

Bottom line review of the Stihl BGA 57 Blower: The Stihl BGA 57 blower is uncharacteristically weak and made for an audience that doesn’t resonate with Stihl. You can find a cheaper, better blower on my list of the best battery blowers.

Here is my breakdown for the Stihl BGA 57 – jump ahead by clicking the below links.

Stihl BGA 57 Blower: Features and benefits

Alright, if you’re anything like me then you may have had a natural repulsion to battery-powered tools. I am fully on board now, but it can take some convincing for those of us that have always used gas power. 

What you might have expected from Stihl…

Let’s take a deep dive into the Stihl BGA 57 to see if we can make sense of its specifications and features.

If you like Stihl products then check out our ranking of the best Stihl weed eaters.

Power on the Stihl BGA 57 battery-powered blower

First and foremost, we have to talk about power. When I am examining a blower, I want to make sure I understand a few things.


The first of which is MPH. I generally want this in the 120+ range. Once you get to the 120+ range, you know that your blower is going to be able to get rid of that one wet leaf that is stuck to your driveway and won’t budge. 

Less important is the CFMs, which is a measurement of air output. Higher CFMs usually correlate to higher MPHs given the nozzle size is the same. Often, however, you will see that high CFM blowers can have low MPHs; this is due to a wide nozzle. Wide nozzles are great for blowers that are used on large areas. They simply move massive piles of leaves. Smaller nozzles are great for targeted jobs, like grass clean up and smaller yard leaf removal.

So where does the Stihl BGA 57 stack up?

365 CFMs and 123 MPH. Womp womp….

These aren’t great numbers. This thing has a tapered nozzle and still has low air output and speed. 

Nothing like the gas counterpart.

I’ve gotta say, I am disappointed here. I really expected this to have more power – mostly because their gas leaf blowers like the Stihl BG 86 C can really knock your socks off. 

What are they thinking? 

The Stihl BGA 57 is easy to use, however

What the Stihl BGA 57 lacks in power, it makes up for in ease of handling. It has a nice rubberized grip that makes holding it a breeze. And speaking of holding it, the thing only weighs like 6 lbs. It’s super lightweight. 

This is definitely a shorter, bite-sized person using this.

It comes with three different tube lengths, which can help if you are on the shorter side. The longest length helps tall people like me still make good contact with the rubbish I am blowing without breaking my lower back.

A downside here is that the blower only has one speed. The trigger is not variable-speed, meaning that it only goes full blast. 

Compared to a gas blower, there are a lot of things to like. It is:

  1. Quiet
    • This thing is WAY quieter than a gas blower, albeit a different kind of noise.
  2. Emissions  free
    • No concerns about breathing in fumes and you can even use it indoors (basically a big hair dryer)
  3. No maintenance
    • No oil changes, spark plugs, filters, oil and gas mixtures. Just plug in the battery and rock.

One other unnecessary feature on the Stihl BGA 57 is the safety locking button. It has more of a safety than most handguns. Blowers are probably the least dangerous lawn tool in existence – why do you lock it down like Air Force One?

Super easy to use the battery.

The Stihl BGA 57 has a questionable motor

Another disappointing feature of the Stihl BGA 57 is the lack of a brushless motor. Now I haven’t cracked this one open yet to actually check the motor, but it doesn’t say ANYTHING about having a brushless motor on their website, the manual, or any promotional materials.

Brushless motors are the standard now for high-end electric blowers. They are more durable, longer-lasting, have more torque, and are quieter. Typical brushed motors can get really hot, causing a ton of problems, chief of which is the breakdown of the motor over time.

C’mon Stihl! Do better!

The motor is still going to last you a few years, but I really would have liked to see and expected to see brushless. Otherwise, this is a well-constructed and solid piece of equipment. It doesn’t feel too cheap and plasticky. It has a slick design and the tubes are quality. 

Speaking of long-lasting, the run time on this thing is 18 minutes. This is great for a small yard, but if you have a medium-sized yard or bigger, then you better pray you get the wind working at your back. This thing does NOT last very long.

The Stihl BGA 57 blower is overpriced

The Stihl BGA 57 blower can be bought at your local Ace Hardware. They may be running a deal, but my local Ace had it for just under $200. I’ll be returning it.

For $200, you can do way better in a blower. I would actually spend a bit more and get the EGO 765 CFM blower OR spend less and get one of the cheaper Ryobi 40V blowers. 

Get what you pay for either way – which isn’t happening with this Stihl blower.

The Overall Review: Stihl BGA 57 blower

I think y’all know where I stand. Not only is this blower on the weaker end, but it has only one speed but it is also overpriced. I would not recommend this to anyone unless they are obsessed with Stihl or obsessed with being sad.

Sorry, y’all. 

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we spend our time now.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

What to look for in a cordless blower

Cordless leaf blowers come in a bunch of shapes and sizes but there are three basic things you need to understand:

  • CFM – Cubic feet per minute. This is a measure of air output on the blower. Higher CFM = more power, but not necessarily more miles per hour. High CFM with a wide nozzle = lower MPH. High CFM with a narrow nozzle = high miles per hour. Ideally, you want both a high CFM with a narrow to medium nozzle for most residential jobs.
  • Usability – what is the point of having a blower if it is hard to use? Have to get one that is lightweight, easy to start, and has some functions that make your life easier.
  • Motor type – brushless motors reign supreme. Cooler running motors with more torque, a longer run-time, and last many more years. Brushless is a no brainer when picking a blower.

These are three things you need to pay attention to when looking through the specifications. 

Posted on

Stihl FSA 57 String Trimmer Review: 2024 Update

Stihl’s FSA 57 String Trimmer is one of their most popular battery-powered string trimmers, but is still a deviation from their well known, powerful gas powered weed eaters.

The gas powered ones can’t be beaten!

Bottom Line: The Stihl FSA 57 provides more power than other Stihl battery weed eaters but doesn’t have a great battery support system and isn’t worth the money (in my opinion).

Let’s get started:

Stihl FSA 57 String Trimmer: Features and Benefits

Alright folks, let’s get into it. Today we are going to check out the power, ease of use, durability, and cost of this string trimmer. Throughout the post I’ll do quick comparisons to the gas counterpart, the Stihl FS 56 C gas trimmer. If you’re interested, we’ve compiled a huge list of the best Stihl string trimmers here.

Stihl does have a new Stihl FSA 45 String trimmer, which is kind of like this one’s little brother.

Stihl FSA 57 has a nice look to it!

Power on the Stihl FSA 57 string trimmer

The Stihl FSA 57 trimmer can have its power measured in a few ways. The first of which is rotations per minute. Honestly, this is a really tough one to relate to as it takes a huge difference in the number of rotations per minute to notice a difference when trimming.

The power signal I am looking for is cutting swath, or width of the cutting path. This helps you understand just how powerful your electric Stihl weed eater is going to cut.

Definitely can tackle jobs like these!

The Stihl FSA 57 weed eater comes in at an 11 inch cutting swath. Honestly, a little disappointing. Don’t get me wrong, 11 inches is definitely enough for the average homeowner, but from Stihl I expected a bit more. For other electric comparisons, some of the Makita trimmers and EGO string trimmers run 13 to 15 inches. 

If you have a small to medium-sized yard, 11 inches is going to be perfect. But if you are the type of guy that likes to have more power accessible, then you may want to keep looking. 

The STIHL FSA 57 is easy to use

What the Stihl FSA 57 weed eater lacks in power, it makes up for in ease of use. I mean the whole dang trimmer weighs 7.5 lbs – with a battery! Not only is this thing super lightweight, but it has a ton of features that make it very simple to use.

Some of the features on the Stihl FSA string trimmer are inherent to all battery powered trimmers. Namely – the battery power. Think about it, no more oil and gas mixtures or difficult cold starts with this. You just pop the battery, squeeze the trigger, and go. 

Another cool feature that makes this easy to use is the adjustable shaft. It can change in length with a pretty easy telescoping function. I’ve always found it easy to make trimmers as long as possible to extend your reach, especially if you’re tall like me.

It also comes with an auto-feeding head, which is pretty standard on most new trimmers these days. The last cool piece is the brush guard on the head, which comes standard on some of the Greenworks trimmers, Worx weed eaters, and Kobalt trimmers as well.

The auto-feeding head on the Stihl FSA 57.

It is unclear how durable the Stihl FSA 57 is

Durability is a common question I get with battery powered trimmers. Mainly because gas powered trimmers are just built differently. The commercial string trimmers in particular are made to toss into the back of a trailer and speed from one lawn to the next.

Residential battery-powered trimmers just aren’t. They have way more plastic components and can’t handle the same brush as most gas powered trimmers. Not true of all of them, but definitely true of the Stihl FSA 57 string trimmer.

One thing that really upsets me about the Stihl FSA 57 is that it doesn’t say anything about having a brushless motor. I’m absolutely shocked and frankly expected more from Stihl.

Hmmmmmmm.

Brushed motors are still fine, but the standard in high-end string trimmers is a brushless motor these days. I think that tells you about all you need to know about this trimmer – Stihl clearly does not think it is a high-end trimmer.

Sad.

Stihl FSA 57 Cost

Hate to say sad again so quickly, but sadly you have to contact your local Ace Hardware to get the price for this bad boy. Mine had it for $199, but I actually returned it :(.

The official review: Stihl FSA 57 String Trimmer

Well folks, I don’t do this often but I have to officially say that I am not a fan of this string trimmer. While it is super convenient, easy to use, and perfect for those with a small yard, it is definitely an apple that falls far from the tree. 

This product is simply not very durable and not up to the standards I would expect from Stihl. If you’re going to grab some battery-powered products, I’d find another brand like Ryobi or Greenworks that can give you more products along a single battery line.

If you’re going to go with Stihl, I’d get gas for now. 

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we test out our tools.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something. 

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is still at it! Pumping out high quality product after high quality product. They’re thought of as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. The boys in orange are known to have a superior product to their competitors.

The world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, the company moved some operations to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the lawn care space.

Where you might recognize Stihl equipment.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products.

How to instantly improve your weed eater

Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.

Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.

With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

Gas vs Electric String Trimmer

When purchasing a piece of lawn equipment in 2023 it’s important to understand your power source options. It basically boils down to gas or electric. Electric trimmers are typically easier to start and usually maintenance is a breeze. They also have less of a noise and environmental impact. Electric trimmers are usually a good bet for small to medium-sized jobs.

Trimmers powered by gas usually end up having more power and are more suitable for larger, more commercial type applications. This is mainly due to the issues the professionals have with keeping them charged. But not all of us are professionals, we just want a badass string trimmer from Stihl.

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Stihl FS 56 RC String Trimmer Review: 2024 Update

The Stihl FS 56 RC and RC-E are really powerful, reliable string trimmers. I have owned my Stihl FS 56 RC for about 5 years and have no complaints.

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable string trimmer look no further! The Stihl FS 56 RC Brush cutter is the real dang deal. Relatively lightweight but more than capable power makes this straight shaft trimmer hard to turn down.

Let’s get started – jump ahead using the below links:

Stihl FS 56 RC Trimmer Features

As discussed earlier, it’s important when buying a trimmer to make sure you’re getting a clear understanding of the product’s power, comfort level and ease of use before purchase. There’s nothing worse than buying something that has great power or fuel efficiency that ends up weighing as much as an elephant. Let’s jump in to what makes the FS 56 RC unique.

Power 

This trimmer boasts a capable 27.2 CC 2 cycle gas powered engine. Compared to other trimmers of it’s size and price range and some we’ve reviewed recently, this is actually on the high end of power. Compared to an alternative competitor such as the ECHO SRM 225 (which we reviewed here).

Nice shaft length (no jokes).

 That’s than enough power to keep cutting as long as you have line to feed it. I really haven’t experienced this bogging down at all in my experience.  

Comfort Level of the Stihl FS 56 RC trimmer

This trimmer has a straight shaft which makes it really easy to handle for taller people like me. I had an echo curved shaft that was very difficult on my back. This engine also runs very smoothly so it reduces vibration on your hands and forearms which is good for days where you’ve got a lot of cleaning up to do.

Also, not super duper heavy at 10.6 lbs which is also great for long days on the job. Once you get it started the comfortable and adjustable handle on the shaft make customization pretty simple as well. If you have longer arms, just slide the handle down the shaft and retighten.

Starting and using the Stihl FS 56 RC and RC-E weed eater

The Stihl FS 56 RC Trimmer is relatively easy to use. It boasts the Easy2Start technology which makes start-up a breeze. It’s pretty initiative, honestly. You start it up just like you would any other trimmer. You push the primer bulb about 5 times and move the choke position to closed and pull. Usually starts on the first pull for me.

Stihl FS 56 RC.

While using you basically just pull the trigger right below the engine housing to power the spinning action. If you need more line you just bump the trimmer cutting head on the ground while holding the trimmer and it should release more line for you.

The downside of the Stihl FS 56 RC

The only qualm I have with the decision on this is when I go to refill the cutting head with trimmer line. Man, it is super frustrating for me. I don’t know exactly how it’s supposed to fit when I reattach the spinner to the head itself. I feel like I do the same thing over and over until it locks into place. It’s pretty hard to explain so just watch our view video review and you’ll know what I’m talking about. 

Trying to replace the line is difficult

The Official Stihl FS 56 RC Trimmer Review

This is another situation where I’m not going to tell you to buy something I wouldn’t buy myself. I have bought this and I LOVE it. I use it almost every time I mow. I’ve had it for several years and it’s never missed a beat. It’s easy to start, easy to maintain and has everything I’d need in a trimmer. It’s not super expensive for a gas trimmer.

It’ll run you about $220 but in my opinion, it’ll be well worth it. You can grab it at an Ace Hardware near you by following this link, (for about $200) or get it from Stihl’s website directly.

You know what you’re getting with Stihl and this is no exception. Another A+ in my book! 

Why we review string trimmers and weed eaters

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

We take tool testing seriously!

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.

How to instantly improve your weed eater

Upgrade your weed eating game with the ultimate GrassKicker Weed Eater String! While weed eaters and lawn edgers are great tools, it’s not complete without the right string. Our specially crafted line is designed to enhance your weed eater’s performance and give you flawless edges around your yard and garden.

Don’t settle for subpar string that breaks easily and leaves ragged edges. Our team has scoured the market and combined the best colors, shapes, thicknesses, and materials to create a superior line that cuts more cleanly and lasts longer.

With GrassKicker, you can take pride in your perfectly manicured lawn and make a lasting impression on your friends and family. And who knows, your envious neighbors might just start dropping by more often! Don’t wait, elevate your weed eating game with GrassKicker Weed Eater String today! Click the link now to buy.

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is still at it! Pumping out high quality product after high quality product. They’re thought of as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. The boys in orange are known to have a superior product to their competitors. The Stihl FS 56 RC Trimmer is a top notch trimmer that falls right in line with some of their other awesome products.

They also sell some sweet chainsaws.

The world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, the company moved some operations to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the lawn care space.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products.

Gas vs Electric String Trimmer

When purchasing a piece of lawn equipment in 2022 it’s important to understand your power source options. It basically boils down to gas or electric. Electric trimmers are typically easier to star and usually maintenance is a breeze. They also have less of a noise and environmental impact. Electric trimmers are usually a good bet for small jobs.

Trimmer powered by gas usually end up having more power and are more suitable for larger, more commercial type applications. Because some electric trimmers receive power by a cord they’re not super mobile, gas powered weed eaters can go where you can go. If you want to trim up the moon, it can go with you.

Either way you go, you need to make sure you have the right size weed eater string.

What to look for in a gas powered string trimmer

When looking to purchase a gas powered weed eater there are a few key things to keep in mind. It is always important to understand the power of the machine you are wanting to buy. A good indicator of the power is cubic centimeters or “CC’s”. 

Other considerations are comfort level (straight vs curved shafts, weight), how the line in the trimmer advances (single line vs dual line, bump heads vs automatic feed), and whether or not it has the ability to add attachments. It’s important to find the right balance for your particular yard and personal strength. 

We’ve actually compiled a full list of the best Stihl weed eaters on the market.

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Stihl MS 251 C Chainsaw Review: 2024 Update

Stihl’s MS 251 C is the chainsaw for you if you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s the perfect combination of efficiency and power, ideal for the average homeowner and not too terribly expensive.

Simple, elegant, powerful.

Bottom line: The Stihl MS 251 C is my personal chainsaw and I love this dude. Stihl slapped so many cool features on this guy. It’s simply a must have if you want to be a cool dad or mom. I did a full video review of this chainsaw on my YouTube channel – check it out!

This chainsaw is specifically targeted for small commercial applications or homeowners with a few acres or so. I don’t fall into either of these categories honestly but I still love this guy. It’s always fun to hear the neighbor’s dogs go nuts when I fire this bad boy up! 

Let’s get started:

Stihl MS 251 C Chainsaw Functionality

Let’s get into the meat of the article now. As stated previously, this is one of my favorite tools I have. It’s the perfect blend of efficiency and power. This powerful yet efficient chainsaw boasts a 20% fuel savings and 50% emission reduction. Them Stihl boys done did it again! This is the perfect chainsaw for homeowners in my opinion. This guy will last you a long time but won’t break the bank like some of the other heavier duty models will. 

Using the Stihl MS-251 C

One of my favorite features, in theory, is the Quick Chain Adjuster. It’s a little spinny wheel next to the crankcase cover that allows you to adjust the chain tension without the need for additional tools. 

Quick Chain Adjuster yo.

However, at The Lawn Review, we’re committed to giving you practical, HONEST, feedback on the products we review. This one is a miss for me. It gets gunked up way too easily and I end up having to take the cover off to make the necessary adjustments. 

Another key issue I’ve experienced is the “gear” in the crankcase being a bit too short. This can cause the chain to slide or “bounce” out to gear and off the bar. This could be a huge safety issue and a pain in the butt to be honest. 

Like a hot knife through butter.

A feature I’ve enjoyed is the Master Control Lever. This is a single lever that operates the choke, starting throttle lock and controls engine shut off. I actually really enjoy that and think it simplifies operation quite a bit.

Dependability

Because it’s a Stihl, made in the beautiful US of A, you can safely assume the MS 251 C chainsaw is well made with  top notch parts. Stihl doesn’t use junk in my opinion. As long as you don’t forget to use bar and chain oil like I have done, this should last you for a decade or more. It also comes with a sweet 2 year warranty so long as you use Stihl oil. 

Power: Stihl MS 251 C

This chainsaw has more than enough power to get all the residential jobs done you can think of. I’ve run this thing through logs I thought it would for sure get hung up in. It has about 45 cc engine output so it’s more than capable to get the job done. 

Stihl’s MS251C is a beast!

The Official Review of the Stihl MS 251 C Chainsaw

I wouldn’t tell you to buy something I wouldn’t buy myself – I bought this and I love this chainsaw. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone with an acre or more with a reasonable amount of trees. Or if you want to be a cool mom or dad. That being said, most chainsaws in residential communities are probably unnecessary.

Pretty cool screencap from our video – check it out and subscribe on YT!

But I bought it and am extremely happy I did. At $400 from most retailers this is going to be one of the more expensive tools you buy besides your mower but this a very well made product from a well respected company in Stihl. 

You can grab this chainsaw at Ace Hardware where Stihl has an exclusive relationship.

Why we review lawn tools

The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site. 

How we test some of these.

As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.

Stihl’s reputation

Stihl is widely regarded as one of the GOATS of the yard product game. They are know to have a superior product to their competitors. The Stihl MS 251 C chainsaw is one of their best selling products because it is something they have completely mastered.

The Stihl family moved to Virginia in the 1970s and opened up their first factory dedicated to a single chainsaw. They have continued to master their craft and expand their product offers in the the lawn care space.

Stihl also makes these backpack blowers.

Stihl has a great reputation that many commercial landscapers rely on each day. Many residential owners will be more than pleased with their products.

We at the Lawn Review are big fans of Stihl and have reviewed a ton of their blowers.

Chainsaws vs Axe vs Handsaws vs Loppers

When purchasing a chainsaw, it’s important to understand if you actually NEED a chainsaw. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a loud and proud product but when it’s as expensive as most chainsaws are, it makes me wonder… Is this the right tool?

All virtually do the same thing, which is make big pieces of wood smaller. However, each one is targeted for different tasks and frequencies. If you’re cutting down a small tree, clearing some brush or splitting some logs an ax is probably all you’ll ever need. If, however, you’ve got A LOT of small trees to take down, or some big branches to remove then a chainsaw is probably better for you.

Busted through this fast!

A handsaw is somewhere between, usually like a branch that is 2 to 3” in diameter that you want a clean cut for, like removing a branch close to the trunk of a tree. And last but perhaps my most favorite and often used, a lopper.

A lopper is great for things you could use a handsaw or axe for, it’s basically a big shear blade with long handles. I use the heck out of it in my lawn. 

What to look for in a chainsaw

A solid chainsaw is one of the most important tools a homeowner can have. Buying the right one is absolutely essential to your kids thinking you’re a cool mom or dad. Chainsaws come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, types, models and flavors. There’s a chainsaw for most any application imaginable. Most saws are either gas or electric powered. Depending on your application of course, most people can get away with a 14” bar and chain. Unless you’re cutting up massive trees you probably don’t need anything bigger than that. 

Mine is looking beat up these days!

In addition to that, most people nowadays can probably get away with an electric model vs a more powerful, smoother cutting gas powered model. But it’s all personal preference. However, honestly I tend to always go with the bigger more powerful engines because I think they’ll last longer. So far that’s proven to be true, but I could just be wasting money. 

Chainsaw safety

Just make sure your chainsaw has some of the newer safety features. One of my favorites is the kickback reduction feature. Kickback reductions can be in the form of the chain or bar itself. Basically these just prevent you from cutting too aggressively which prevents your saw from bouncing back on you. Or a chain brake which causes the chain to stop when it hits something hard or moves too abruptly. This prevents you from losing one of your digits or head! You only have 10 of them! 

Check out our Dewalt electric chainsaw review here.

Other features that are nice to have are more comfort-centric. These include tool-less tensioners, mufflers, etc.

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